Life & Work with Ashley Day of North Carolina

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Day.

Hi Ashley , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my business because, as an overweight teen, I struggled with self-identity and never truly felt beautiful in my own skin. My mom would have a hard time finding clothes that fit me, and it made me feel invisible in a world built for a different standard. As I grew older and became more interested in fashion, I realized how powerful style could be in building confidence and expressing who you are. I knew then that one day I wanted to create a brand that provides fashion pieces to help women feel confident, stylish, and unapologetically expressive — no matter their size or the room they walk into. That’s been my mission ever since.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s definitely been a journey of trial and error — learning how to become not just a business owner, but an impactful entrepreneur. I’ve had to figure out so much along the way, especially since I don’t come from a family of entrepreneurs. Everything from managing a business, marketing, pricing, and building a brand with purpose has been something I’ve learned through experience, mistakes, and growth. Through it all, my faith in God has been my foundation. I’ve leaned on Him to guide me, open doors, and give me the wisdom and strength to keep going, even when things got tough. Every challenge has not only grown me as a businesswoman but also deepened my relationship with God.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Since starting my business in 2017, it has evolved into so much more than I could have imagined. I began with curated hypoallergenic accessories, and now I provide women with custom leather bags and custom tees. Last year, I stepped into the world of public speaking, teaching from my eBook How to Be a Successful Popup Vendor, where I share my own vending journey to help other entrepreneurs. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at events, and this month, I’ll be teaching my very first full sewing class in collaboration with a Black-owned co-op space, The Wright Village

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I didn’t realize how much I was building brand awareness for my business while doing popups around the RDU area in North Carolina over the years. Durham especially has been a creative hub for me — a place where I’ve grown my own community of support, not just from customers, but also from other entrepreneurs. It’s been a space filled with learning opportunities and resources that have truly contributed to my growth as an entrepreneur. I LOVE DURHAM, N.C.!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.graffitipanda.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graffiti_panda/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graffitipanda/